MINNEAPOLIS - Minnesota quarterback Philip Nelson says he intends to transfer to another school that runs an offense "that centers more around the passing game."

The sophomore made the surprise announcement Thursday when he first released the statement to KFXN-FM in Minneapolis. Nelson completed 50.5 percent of his passes for 1,306 yards with nine touchdowns and six interceptions last season. He also rushed for 364 yards and six touchdowns while sharing quarterback duties with Mitch Leidner.

Nelson played poorly in the Texas Bowl loss to Syracuse, going just 2 for 7 for 18 yards.

Golden Gophers coach Jerry Kill calls Nelson "a terrific young man, and I wish him all the best as he continues his education and football career elsewhere."